Warhammer 40,000 Deathwatch: Enhanced Edition
Overview -
'Warhammer', which began in 1983, is a dark fantasy setting used primarily for tabletop miniature and RPG gaming. It has also been heavily used for video games. The set has spun off into a futuristic sci-fi/fantasy series called 'Warhammer 40,000', which is quite popular and currently in its seventh edition. 'Warhammer 40,000 Deathwatch: Tyranid Invasion' was first released to considerable acclaim in July on iOS and has been redone for PC as 'Warhammer 40,000 Deathwatch: Enhanced Edition'.
Video Review
The 'Enhanced Edition' has a set of upgraded visuals, courtesy of the Unreal 4 on the PC. It looks pretty good for a mobile remake, with the improved lighting and effects and the silky smooth performance. The Marine character models and wargear cards are intimidating, although the space aliens are much less detailed. The controls feel appropriate for a PC title with the exception of the occasional slow double-click. I did have some issues playing in fullscreen mode - the game seems to prefer windowed.
Audio Review
'Deathwatch' is a very quiet game. The Marines don’t talk much except for the occasional and unrelated small talk during fights, and their commanding officer is even less chatty. The sound effects for the weapons are powerful enough, but the music is very sparse and understated.
Final Thoughts
'Warhammer 40,000 Deathwatch' was an excellent mobile title, and its 'Enhanced Edition' remains competitive with other strategy titles on the PC. It doesn’t have the visual or narrative heft of some of its high-budget contemporaries, but its gameplay punches far above its weight.
